Mazda has entered a crucial stage in its electrification strategy as the automaker begins testing its first dedicated EV. The model is currently undergoing trials in California, marking a significant milestone for the company.
The development signals a major shift for Mazda, which has traditionally trailed behind leading global automakers in the transition to electric mobility.
Mazda’s first U.S. EV, the MX-30, was discontinued after only two years, with the company selling just a few hundred units. Built on the same platform as the CX-30, the MX-30 functioned more like a plug-in hybrid, delivering a limited range of about 100 miles.
Over the past decade, Mazda has largely focused on plug-in hybrid variants of its CX-70 and CX-90 SUVs instead of investing heavily in fully electric vehicle development.
Mazda is now working to regain momentum in electrification with the development of its first EV. Earlier this year, the Japanese automaker revealed plans to produce the model at its Hofu H2 assembly plant in Japan.
The midsize electric crossover resembles a scaled-down version of the CX-90, Mazda’s largest SUV. While the company declined to share details about future plans, it noted that its U.S. R&D teams routinely test new technologies to deliver an optimal driving experience.
Mazda plans to start production of the EV in 2027, with sales slated to begin in 2028. Unlike the MX-30, the upcoming model will utilize Mazda’s dedicated Skyactiv EV Scalable Architecture platform.
By 2030, Mazda aims to have some level of electrification across its entire vehicle lineup, supported by an investment of nearly $11 billion. While the company had earlier projected that EVs would make up 25% to 40% of its global sales by that time, it now expects the figure to land closer to 25%.
Additionally, Mazda is preparing to roll out the fully electric 6e sedan and EZ-60 SUV across several global markets, including Europe. Both models were jointly developed with Chinese automaker Changan Automobile and are built on Changan’s EPA1 platform.
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